The UBC SASS Aphasia Mentoring Program began in 2010 after many community members with aphasia and their families expressed a desire for collaboration with SASS. An advisory board was established, focus groups were held, and the Aphasia Mentoring Program officially began as a pilot project in September 2010.
Now in its 10th year! In spite of the current pandemic, the Aphasia Mentors Program continues to run every Thursday from 10:00 AM-12:30PM, with programs occasionally on Tuesdays from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
The program runs over 3 Terms:
- September – December;
- January – April;
- April – June.
Approximately 22 people with aphasia (PWA) attend the program weekly, supporting the growth and learning of the School of Audiology and Speech Sciences’ SLP and Audiology students.
Following introductions and announcements, the large group divides into the three small groups, based on interests. The themes of these smaller conversation groups rotate each term. Examples of small groups within the Aphasia Mentors Program include:
- Book Group
- Music Discussion
- Photography Group
- Debate Group
- iPad Group
- Current Events Group
The following is an example of a typical in-person Aphasia Mentors Program agenda:
10:00-10:30 Coffee time.
Informal conversation between mentors and students/guests
10:30-10:50 Large Group Announcements
Introductions (if guests/new students are present)
10:50-12:15 Small Conversation Groups: Special Interest
OR
*ToastMentors
12:15-12:30 Large Group Debrief & Wrap Up
*Once a month, the group remains together and participates in a speech-crafting program, adapted from the internationally known Toastmasters. The Aphasia Mentors Program calls this “ToastMentors”.
Student Roles within the program:
First semester (Sept-Dec)
Year 1 SLP and Audiology students rotate through the program weekly
Goals for First Year Students:
- Develop a greater understanding of the impact of aphasia
- Practice supported communication strategies and techniques within a conversation group.
In addition to the Year 1 students, three Year 2 SLP students participate weekly during this first semester as part of their third clinical externship.
Second Semester (Jan-Apr)
Year 2 SLP students rotate in weekly
Goals for Second Year Students:
- Training and practice in supportive communication
- Facilitate conversation groups in consideration of participation, language, environmental and personal domains.